The Kansas City Current is a one-of-a-kind sports phenomenon, establishing a diehard fanbase—and a global first for women’s sports—in the Heart of America.
History in the Heartland
It all began with a current.
As the Missouri River carried 19th-century traders across the nation by steamboat, its frequent passengers set up a riverfront trading post at the confluence of the Missouri and Kansas Rivers. The riverfront commerce hub, known then as Westport Landing and acknowledged now as the original birthplace of modern Kansas City, established the foundation of a new economic and cultural center at the heart of the country.
And now, nearly two centuries later and just one mile away, the Kansas City Current stands ready to carry us forward into a new era for women’s sports—right here in KC, across the country, and all around the world.
Getting started
During FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019, as the U.S. Women’s National Team battled to victory, KC-based business leaders Angie Long and Chris Long were in Paris to watch the action unfold live. Throughout the tournament, they were struck by images of one city’s raucous watch parties that drew continuous coverage on broadcasts in France and around the world—their hometown, Kansas City.
Hardly a year later, the opportunity arose to relocate a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team that had been playing in Utah. The Longs, encouraged by the demonstrations of KC’s soccer enthusiasm they had seen on television in Paris, leapt at the chance. The move established them as founders and owners of the Kansas City Current, along with entrepreneur Brittany Mahomes. (In 2023, the ownership group expanded to include Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and Brittany’s husband.) Together, they made plans for a team to blaze a trail for the future of women’s sports.
Creating a legacy
The Current officially began play during the 2021 season. Within months, the club’s ownership announced a series of investments in women’s sports that were unmatched anywhere in the world.
In 2022, the team opened a first-of-its-kind training facility for a women’s professional sports team, providing top-tier resources for daily use by Current players and front office staff. The complex has also hosted the U.S. Women’s National Team for training.
The training facility was the first major piece of sports infrastructure established by the history-making franchise—and the precursor to an even larger accomplishment. This season, players take their talents to the field in unprecedented fashion with the debut of the team’s pinnacle achievement: The world’s first purpose-built women’s professional sports stadium.
Building for the community
After finding inspiration in France, opportunity in the heart of the country, and supporters all over the map, the team’s ownership and devoted fans have followed the Kansas City Current to its final and most significant destination—a permanent, history-making home on the banks of the Missouri River.
A crown jewel and catalyst for the burgeoning Berkley Riverfront area, the stadium stands shimmering in front of the KC skyline, welcoming travelers who arrive in Downtown Kansas City from the north. Inside, fan sections offer panoramic views of the river. The stadium’s seating for 11,500 guests is designed to maintain a loud and lively soccer atmosphere while keeping fans close to the action, so you’re certain to quickly embrace your place in the matchday crowd.
Before the competition begins and after it concludes, the neighborhood offers an ideal chance for relaxation thanks to a nearly mile-long park, plus a trail for pedestrians and bikers, stretching along the riverfront. Plus, watch for concerts and other sporting events at the stadium as one of KC’s newest and most unique venues delivers year-round opportunities for revelry along the river.
Local inspiration
Even as it draws global headlines, the standard-setting stadium remains authentic to Kansas City in its food and entertainment offerings.
Colby and Megan Garrelts of Rye KC
Award-winning chefs Colby and Megan Garrelts have lent their culinary expertise to the Current as chef partners in the development of the stadium’s premium food and beverage menus. The pair are a centerpiece of Kansas City’s dynamic dining landscape, with Colby receiving recognition from the James Beard Foundation Awards as Best Chef Midwest and Megan earning a nod as a James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef.
For an extended exploration of their irresistibly comforting American fare, make a visit to either of Rye’s two restaurant locations, found on the Country Club Plaza and in Leawood.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
A new landmark meets one of the region’s original claims to fame. Thanks to the smoked meat masterminds at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, fans from near and far can enjoy KC’s signature cuisine on matchday.
Famous for its original location inside a gas station, Joe’s KC regularly garners national and international attention for flavorful menu staples like the Z-Man sandwich.
Baba’s Pantry
Shortly after opening, the warm Palestinian café was recognized by Bon Appétit as one of the best new restaurants in America in 2022. The shop’s beloved hummus and pita are available in the stadium, along with more picks that include flavorful vegetarian-friendly options.
The original location south of downtown Kansas City has expanded with the addition of Baba’s Bakery, a companion storefront for dessert and pastries.
Room 39
Room 39 is known for its celebrated chef and dishes that focus on local agriculture, always working to support farmers and producers across Missouri and Kansas. The original location in the quirky West 39th Street neighborhood has been serving diners for more than 20 years.
High Hopes Ice Cream
Make your matchday experience sweeter with a visit to High Hopes Ice Cream, a local favorite since its storefront opened at 55th & Troost in 2020. The two locations inside the stadium scoop a selection of the shop’s signature flavors.
Ruby Jean’s Juicery
Ruby Jean’s Juicery has made itself a Kansas City staple for fresh juices, smoothies and more refreshing flavors. Take your pick from a lineup of cold-pressed juices inside the stadium or at the vibrant Ruby Jean’s storefront on 30th & Troost.
Billie’s Grocery
Celebrated for its menu of fresh and organic picks, Billie’s Grocery has become a local favorite for healthy, dietary-inclusive dining. The location inside CPKC Stadium is joined by two restaurant locations in Midtown and Leawood.
Yoli Tortilleria
A James Beard Award winner for Outstanding Bakery, Yoli Tortilleria has become locally (and nationally) famous for its assortment of Sonoran-style tortillas. Pick up nachos, flautas and other satisfying favorites at its stadium location.
Beyond matchday, Yoli has launched a lunch menu and offers grab-and-go items for diners in the Westside.
Martin City Brewery & Pizza
Martin City has been delighting crowds with a classic pairing—pizza and beer—for more than a decade. Now, Current fans can enjoy these tastes alongside NWSL action, with pizza slices and a locally-brewed IPA available on matchday.
